Agave SweetenersThe agave syrups are a fairly recent addition to the food scene in America. These are seen as a natural alternative to granulated sugar.

Award Winning Euphorbias During 2009 new plant trials were held all over the country at various locations. Among the outstanding new varieties were a number of different euphorbias that will be of interest to succulent lovers.

Cacti with Edible FruitsThough it is common knowledge that prickly pear fruits are edible, some of the other species that bear edible ones arenīt as widely recognized.

Cacti/Succulents Book ReviewIn addition to gardening books, cacti and succulent growers will find regional books on plants are very useful. Texas A & M University Press has released a very helpful title.

Cactus FlowersCactus flowers put on quite a show. Theyīre among the most beautiful in the plant kingdon.

Cactus SpinesAmong cacti, spines are very common. A cactus spine is really a kind of modified leaf.

Decorating with Images of Cacti and SucculentsThis week, we will focus on using images of cacti and succulents on functional and decorative items for the home. We'll also look at ways that these can be incorporated into various decorating styles.

Diseases of Cacti and SucculentsFor the most part, cacti and succulents are carefree plants. Given the right growing conditions, they will rarely suffer from serious insect and disease problems. However, as with most plants there are exceptions.

Displaying Holiday CactiWith their cheerful colors and attractive shapes, the holiday cacti love to be in the limelight.

Florilegium Imperiale Book Review"Florilegium Imperiale-Botanical Illustrations for Francis I of Austria" by H. Walter Lack will be of particular interest to cacti and succulent lovers.

Forms of Different Cacti and SucculentsPlants have many interesting features, and each of these contributes to the overall beauty of the specimen. Most often we might think of leaves and flowers, but the form or growth habit can also make a species really attractive.

Garden Chemicals and Cacti/SucculentsThough cacti and succulents are generally more resistant to insects and diseases than many other plants, it is sometimes necessary to use garden chemicals.

Images of Cacti and SucculentsGardeners enjoy seeing images of their favorite plants. Why else would we buy garden calendars year after year? Images of cacti and succulents are available even though they arenīt as common as those of some other plants.

Indoor Gardening Book ReviewTender cacti and succulents can be brought indoors or into a greenhouse for the colder months. Storey Publishing has released a wonderful guide on overwintering tender plants.

More Companions for Cacti and SucculentsGardeners in warm climates can choose from many companion plants for their cacti and succulents. Here are some suggested plants that can tolerate hot, dry conditions.

Planting Cacti and Succulents Outdoors In most parts of the U.S., spring is the prime time when plants are transplanted into the landscape. During this period, the temperatures are cooler and the plants will suffer from less transplanting shock.

Plants Have Body Language Plants use body language to indicate how they are doing. If we become attuned to how they look and what they are saying we can better meet their needs. This is especially true for cacti and succulents.

Some Award Winning Succulents A number of different succulents were recognized as award winners during the last year or so. These are very good choices for the garden because you know they'll be top performers.

Some Award Winning SuculentsWhen choosing cacti and succulents, you won't go wrong with award winning varieties. A number of succulents have been singled out for special honors.

Some Common Plant ProblemsCacti and succulents suffer from fewer insect and disease problems than most other plants. Yet, they still have their share. Here is a simple guide to the most common things that occur.

Some Succulents from SeedSome succulents are fairly easy to grow from seed. Here are some that are recommended for beginners.

Some Suitable Succulents for Indoor BonsaiFor those cacti and succulent lovers who are interested in bonsai, there are quite a few suitable species. For the most part, these succulents tend to be either shrubby, tree-like, or caudiforms.

Strawberry Jar PlantingsStrawberry jars are a favorite container among cacti and succulent gardeners. These pots offer many advantages for the plants.

Succulent BonsaiBonsai are among the most revered plants in cultivation. Creating these specimens is by no means quick and easy.

Succulent Color ChangesWhy did your green aloe turn red? There are several reasons why the leaves of succulents change color. Recognizing these changes can help us keep our plants in a healthy environment.

The Garden at Eichstatt BookThe garden at Eichstatt was the subject of a very special book. This title included a number of cacti and succulent paintings.

The Ice PlantsThe ice plants or delospermas are members of the Aizoon family. These are native to South Africa as well as central and east Africa.

The Intrepid Plant HuntersIn 2004, Americans are celebrating the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. At times, the accomplishments of this scientific corps seem to overshadow those of other great explorers. Letīs take a look at some books about the intrepid plant hunters.

The Latest Word on Succulent Roof GardensGlobal climate change is here. In my local newspaper here in western North Carolina, I read today that 2004 was the fourth hottest year on record. To keep buildings cooler in the summer and warmer during the winter,the solution is to build roof gardens using succulents.

Water Saving Tips for GardenersIn recent years, frequent droughts and excessively hot weather have meant many gardens required supplemental waterings. By growing drought-resistant plants, such as cacti and succulents, and adopting water-saving garden practices, gardeners can reduce the need for watering.